I started this venture in 2008 as an avenue to talk about a wide variety of topics, but primarily as a SCUBA blog under the name "Musings from the Deep Blue Sea". It's evolved. My renewed interest in health, fitness, and nutrition (at the age of 43) has brought me to where I am today, and this site reflects that. Having said that, my original mission statement hasn't changed...

Our lives are important only because of the impact they have on the lives of others. Making a difference is important. This blog isn't written for you, it's written for me. My way of reviewing my life, and its significance...Of course, given my wide range of interests in life, there will be much variety. Welcome to my life.

Saturday, April 9, 2011

DHEA - Part One

I was recently turned on to DHEA by a major personality in the fitness world. He recommended it because of it's testosterone enhancing and weight loss effects. I priced it out, and amazingly enough, it's ridiculously cheap, and available EVERYWHERE!

It sounded too good to be true. Red flag? Maybe...read on.

I started doing some research and found that DHEA is a hormone that is legal to purchase over the counter, yet considered a banned substance by most international sports authorities. It has been shown to increase testosterone levels, aid in fat loss, and muscle building.

There are caveats. Too much DHEA has the potential to lead to liver problems. It could increase the risk of some types of cancer. Side effects include oily skin, acne, hair loss, upset stomach, and high blood pressure.

Most research points to DHEA being safe in low dosages. I'm currently taking 50mg daily. Many athletes are taking up to 200 mg daily, but that may be pushing the safe limits. I'm into muscle....but not enough to compromise my health.

I've been on it for 2 weeks now. I'll keep you posted on my progress...


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Supplement Saturday - Casein Protein

Welcome to my second installment of Supplement Saturday!

Previously, we talked about the benefits of using whey protein to help build and maintain muscle.

Today we'll talk about casein protein. As stated before, we need protein to build muscle, and supplementing your protein intake goes a long way toward achieving your goals.

Casein protein is a very slow digesting protein, and is therefore not as well suited as a recovery aid. Stick with whey protein in your post-workout shake. Casein is best consumed at bedtime. The protein is digested slowly while you sleep, keeping your body in an anabolic (muscle building) state.

My personal feeling is that casein isn't an absolute necessity for those whose goal is to maintain a high level of fitness. It's a little pricey, and unless you have unlimited money supplies, you need to make choices.

If you choose to use it, take about 25 grams at bedtime.


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A New Beginning

The blog has undergone a face-lift and a name change, as has my Twitter account. I think it more accurately reflects the direction I'm heading.

Here's to the future!


SS

Friday, April 8, 2011

Friday - Shoulders

Time for my Friday shoulder workout. One more day to bust my ass before taking the weekend off from weight training.

I've been struggling lately with a little tendinitis in my right elbow. Trying to nurse it back to health has been iffy. It might be time to have something done about it. I'll give it the weekend to heal, then we'll see where we go from there.

Have a great weekend, and stay strong!


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